The Lotus Evora GT430 Sport, produced from 2017 to August 2018, represents a focused, high-performance iteration of the Evora platform. Positioned as a limited-production model within the broader Evora range, the GT430 Sport aimed to deliver a more visceral and track-oriented driving experience than the standard Evora or even the GT430. It built upon the foundation of the 1HX0/A3 platform, known for its lightweight construction and mid-engine layout, and served as a bridge between the more road-focused Evora models and the dedicated Evora Race car. This variant was primarily aimed at driving enthusiasts seeking a highly capable and engaging sports car, offering a significant step up in performance and handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lotus |
| Model | Evora |
| Generation | Evora GT430 |
| Type | Sport 3.5 V6 24V (436 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | August, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg, 9.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 234 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 315 km/h (195.73 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3 kg/Hp, 338.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 341.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 436 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 126.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 4500 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Middle, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 3456 cm3 (210.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.75 l (6.08 US qt | 5.06 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1289 kg (2841.76 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 160 l (5.65 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4396 mm (173.07 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1229 mm (48.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2575 mm (101.38 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 235/35 R19 |
| Rear tires | 285/30 R20 |
| Front wheel rims | 8J x 19 |
| Rear wheel rims | 9.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Evora GT430 Sport lies the Toyota-sourced 2GR-FE 3.5-liter supercharged V6 engine. This engine, a staple of the Evora lineup, was specifically tuned for the GT430 Sport to produce 436 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. The supercharger, an Eaton TVS unit, provides instant boost and a broad torque curve. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, ensuring precise fuel atomization. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased power output. The GT430 Sport exclusively came equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, prioritizing driver engagement and control. This transmission was chosen for its robustness and direct feel, complementing the car’s performance focus.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Evora GT430 Sport is distinctly focused and engaging. The combination of the high-output supercharged V6 and the six-speed manual transmission delivers exhilarating acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 195.73 mph. The manual gearbox allows for precise control over the power delivery, enabling drivers to fully exploit the engine’s capabilities. Compared to the automatic-equipped Evora models, the GT430 Sport offers a more direct connection to the powertrain, enhancing the sense of control and involvement. The gear ratios are closely spaced, keeping the engine within its optimal power band during spirited driving. The car’s relatively low weight (1289 kg / 2841.76 lbs) further contributes to its agile handling and responsive performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GT430 Sport was a relatively well-equipped vehicle, though Lotus prioritized performance over outright luxury. Standard features included lightweight sports seats trimmed in Alcantara and leather, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and air conditioning. The interior featured carbon fiber trim elements, further emphasizing the car’s performance-oriented character. Optional extras included upgraded audio systems, and various exterior customization options. The focus was on creating a driver-centric environment, minimizing weight and maximizing functionality.
Chassis & Braking
The Evora GT430 Sport utilizes a lightweight aluminum chassis, a hallmark of Lotus engineering. The suspension consists of double wishbones at both the front and rear, with transverse stabilizer bars to reduce body roll. The braking system features ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension was tuned for track use, offering a firm but controlled ride. The car’s relatively low ride height (120 mm / 4.72 in.) further enhances its handling stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Evora GT430 Sport was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its exceptional handling, powerful engine, and engaging driving experience. It was often compared favorably to other high-performance sports cars in its price range, such as the Porsche 911. While the GT430 Sport offered significantly more performance than the base Evora models, it came at a higher price point. Fuel economy, at 23.3 US mpg combined, was typical for a high-performance sports car. Reliability was generally good, though maintenance costs could be higher than those of more mainstream vehicles due to the specialized nature of the car and its components.
Legacy
The Lotus Evora GT430 Sport remains a highly sought-after model among driving enthusiasts. Its limited production run and focus on performance have made it a collectible vehicle. The 2GR-FE engine, while not without its quirks, has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant when properly maintained. In the used car market, the GT430 Sport commands a premium price compared to other Evora variants, reflecting its desirability and performance capabilities. It represents a high point in Lotus’s commitment to building lightweight, driver-focused sports cars.
